Coastal Mississippi: The (Not-So-) Secret Coast
Your guide to the southernmost region of the Magnolia State
The southernmost region of the Magnolia State, and South Louisiana’s closest neighbor to the east, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is sixty-two miles of shoreline stretched around the Mississippi Sound, and dotted with distinctive beach towns personified by the Southern creatives who call them home. Just a stone’s (or a seashell’s) throw away from Interstate 10, the coast has long served as a seaside escape within easy reach of New Orleanians fleeing the sweltering temperatures of the humid port city in the summertime. However, this sandy-white waterfront region is less of a secret these days. Today, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has truly emerged as a sought-out tourist destination with a flourishing arts and music scene, and newly-developed attractions that highlight the region’s natural splendor.
Mississippi’s Coastal Region attracts a range of travelers with its eclectic mix of sun-soaked beaches, world-class golf courses, exquisite art galleries, fresh-off-the-dock seafood, deep-sea fishing and avid nightlife, paired with expansive barrier islands and waterways offering both relaxation and adventure. Plus, there’s a burgeoning culinary scene that has garnered national attention, with James Beard Award-nominated chefs busy redefining Southern cuisine.
Beyond its string of waterfront communities—which include Gulfport, Biloxi, Bay St. Louis, Ocean Springs, and Pass Christian—there’s even more to explore. There’s Hattiesburg, home of the University of Southern Mississippi; and Laurel, known as the charming small town setting of the mega-hit HGTV show Home Town, in which classic, historic, and vintage homes are restored by the show’s stars, and Laurel natives, Ben and Erin Napier.
To get the lay of this oh-so-beautiful land, let’s begin in Bay St. Louis. This quaint seaside village welcomes visitors with a cool, laid-back vibe that makes for a relaxed, scenic stop along the shore. You won’t find large condominium developments or busy big-box stores here. Instead, historic homes and cottages are lovingly preserved, as is the town’s long history.
Moving toward the east, Pass Christian—a casual and carefree community referred to by locals simply as “The Pass,” is a haven of historic homes and ancient moss-laden oaks. Pick up a one-of-a-kind antique or a gift from its funky, walkable downtown district, which is lined with local shops, boutiques, and galleries. Don’t miss grabbing a fresh-brewed coffee at Cat Island Coffeehouse, which sports an incredible view over the Mississippi Sound.
Further along the coast, Gulfport is popular for the plethora of parks and water recreation areas dotted throughout the city, up-close-and-personal adventures with the Gulf’s abundant marine life, and zip-lining tours that’ll have you skimming through the coastal canopies. The tucked-away nook of Fishbone Alley is a funky, hidden gem of ever-evolving original public art murals.
Place your best bets in Biloxi, which lays claim to a vibrant nightlife and gaming industry courtesy of several luxurious casino resorts that host a glittering roster of touring bands and entertainment acts. The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, housed within a sleek Frank Gehry-designed landmark, showcases an incredible collection of pottery and ceramics made by the “Mad Potter” George E. Ohr. To understand just how important fishing is to the way of life in this region, the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum makes a must-see attraction. Exhibits on shrimping, oystering, and marine biology come to life through a carefully curated selection of artifacts dating back three centuries. The West Biloxi Boardwalk makes a perfect place to soak up a sunrise or sunset, and the Biloxi Lighthouse, built in 1848 and towering at sixty-four feet tall, is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks.
To the east of Biloxi lies the town of Ocean Springs, best-known as the home of renowned 20th century painter Walter Anderson. There, the acclaimed Walter Anderson Museum of Art pays homage to the vibrant, evocative vision of its native namesake, and houses many of his murals depicting the natural world he loved so much. Art lovers can also visit the Anderson family business, Shearwater Pottery, where handmade ceramics have been sold since the workshop was established in 1928. Washington Avenue—Ocean Springs’ downtown thoroughfare—is lined with a colorful variety of local sweet shops, eateries, and pubs, including The Greenhouse on Porter, the local biscuit café in a greenhouse expertly tended by Jessie Zenor and Kait Sukiennik.
For outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, Moss Point is the way to go. Visit the Pascagoula River Audubon Center nature preserve to discover the wild world of Coastal Mississippi’s abundant native flora and fauna by kayak, or by joining a river, marsh, and bayou boat tour. Pascagoula, Mississippi's Flagship City, boasts handsome antebellum architecture and a rich 300-year history. Pirate Jean Lafitte, Andrew Jackson, Ulysses S. Grant, Zachary Taylor, and Jimmy Buffett all spent time in Pascagoula and considered it either home, hideaway, or restful respite over the years. Visit La Pointe-Krebs House, circa 1718, in all its rugged splendor with a panoramic view of Krebs Lake, or simply kick back with a picnic at Beach Park to spend a lazy summer day, overlooking the Mississippi Sound.
If you plan to visit many of the Gulf Coast’s historic places and museums, consider purchasing a Coastal Mississippi Attractions Pass. For $45, you’ll have access to eight of the region’s top cultural sites. The pass never expires, so you can see everything or split up the fun for your next visit.